June has arrived, and along with it an unusually early rainy season comes knocking at the door.

Muggy days, alternating between scorching sunshine and sometimes torrential rain, are characteristic of this season.

Yet even at this time of year, there are little things in nature from which to draw comfort. And one such example is Rurikoin Temple in Kyoto’s Sakyo ward.

You might be unfamiliar with the name of this beautiful location, but the temple is iconic for its garden views with beautiful Japanese maple trees. In autumn, the leaves turn gorgeous shades of yellow, orange, and red, and attract tourists from all over the country and overseas.

At this time of year, however, the maple leaves are a stunning fresh shade of green. The view from the ample room with large windows, with the sound of rain in the background, is enough to calm the senses.